“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14)

We occasionally find solace in our spiritual roots and theological discussions in this ever-evolving and fast-paced world. Today, we shall delve into the concept of “The Messiah” — a title of profound significance in biblical literature, drawing insights from the biblical scriptures and attempting to unpack the profound implications of this title.

The Discovery of the Messiah

Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, first made the joyful declaration, “We have found the Messiah” (John 1:40,41). A discovery that marked a pivotal point in human history, as a promise was manifested, and God’s salvation was at hand. For those immersed in the Bible, it beckons the question: have we also discovered the Messiah? Have we encountered Him in the sacred scriptures (John 5:39)?

Andrew’s discovery was not a treasure he had hoarded. Instead, he willingly shared his faith with others, starting with his own family, reflecting the essence of Acts 1:8,9. He is a testament to the power of faith-sharing, highlighting the transformative potential of personal missionary activities.

Understanding the Messiah

“Messiah” stems from the Hebrew verb “mashach,” signifying anointing. The anointed one was commonly associated with the consecration of kings, priests, and prophets in Hebrew culture (Judg. 9:8; 1 Sam. 16:12, 13: Ps. 89:20; 1 Ki. 1:45; 2 Ki. 11:12; Ex. 28:41; 29:7;1 Ki. 19:16; Isa. 61:1). This anointing was a pivotal event, celebrating the king’s appointment (Judg. 9:8), the priest’s sanctification (Ex. 28:41), and the prophet’s calling (1 Ki. 19:16).

The Messiah is unique, possessing three roles: the Prophet (Deut. 18:17, 18: John 7:40; Matt. 21:11), the High Priest (Heb. 3:1; 6:20), and the King (Ps. 2:1-12; 24:7-10; Luke 1:31-33). In other words, the Messiah is not merely an intermediary but the ultimate representation of these offices.

Implications of the Messiah’s Office

The Jewish interpretation often restricts the Messiah’s office to that of a prophet and king, overlooking the priestly aspect, as traditionally, the priesthood was limited to the tribe of Levi (Mi. 5:2; Heb. 7). Additionally, the Jewish perspective frequently narrows the Messiah’s mission to the salvation of their own nation.

In contrast, the biblical concept is broader. The Messiah is the prophet of all prophets (John 1:1-3; Matt. 17:5; Heb. 1:1-3), the High Priest of all priests (1 John 2:1-3; 1 Tim. 2:5), and the King of all kings. He has a universal mission that transcends national boundaries.

The Messiah’s office concerns universal problems such as sin (Rom. 3:23; 5:12) and seeks to restore the character and universal harmony (Eph. 1:8-11; 2:11-16; John 15:16; 17:1-22). It addresses the profound issues of humanity, defeats the adversary (Gen. 3:15), and aims to destroy death itself (1 Cor. 15:26, 50-57). His mission also includes restoring the first dominion (Mi. 4:8). These lofty goals are not mere tasks but divine assignments, underscoring the breadth and depth of His mission and the profound implications of the Messiah’s office.

Conclusion

Understanding the Messiah as the Prophet, High Priest, and King transcend tribal and national limits, presenting a universally relevant divine mission. The Messiah is not just a historical figure but a symbol of hope, a change agent, and divine love.

This threefold role invites exploration of the interlinked roles and their profound impact on our lives. In navigating life’s complexities, we can derive wisdom and strength from the Messiah’s mission. The simplicity and depth of this concept continue to transform lives, as demonstrated by Andrew sharing his discovery of the Messiah. We are also encouraged to share this revelation and partake in this divine mission.

The Messiah isn’t only a topic for theological debate but is to be discovered, embraced, and shared in our everyday lives. The critical question for every reader remains: “Have you discovered the Messiah?” Such discovery could offer a transformative power guiding us and shaping the world.

“I have come that they may have life and that they may have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10)

References: John 1:40,41; John 5:39; Acts 1:8,9; Judg. 9:8;1 Sam. 16:12, 13; Ps. 89:20; 1 Ki. 1:45; 2 Ki. 11:12; Ex. 28:41; 29:7;1 Ki. 19:16; Isa. 61:1; Judg. 9:8; Ex. 28:41; 1 Ki. 19:16; Deut. 18:17, 18; John 7:40; Matt. 21:11; Heb. 3:1; 6:20; Ps. 2:1-12; 24:7-10; Luke 1:31-33; Mi. 5:2; Heb. 7; John 1:1-3; Matt. 17:5; Heb. 1:1-3; 1 John 2:1-3; 1 Tim. 2:5; Rom. 3:23; 5:12; Eph. 1:8-11; 2:11-16; John 15:16; 17:1-22; Gen. 3:15; 1 Cor. 15:26, 50-57; Mi. 4:8; John 9:4-6.